Installing a Nest thermostat is one of the most convenient ways to perfect the everyday schedule of your HVAC system. This smart thermostat can recognize your preferences and automatically make adjustments. But as you might expect, it won’t work well or at all if you see an error code show up. The specific error code supplies useful information about the source of the problem, something a professional technician can use to present solutions that much sooner.
Listed below are seven of the most common error codes you could encounter on your Nest thermostat. We’ll explain the basics of each error code on top of how you might fix it and the estimated cost to do so. Keep in mind that while the price will ultimately be dependent on the specific Nest model, you can expect to pay about $75-$200 for repairs. This should include things like travel and labor costs along with any specific hardware necessary to wrap up repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to newer models of the Nest thermostat and is displayed when the power is detached from the system. As this is a critical power error, the thermostat will switch to the backup battery system. The error message will remain on display until the issue is resolved.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for numerous reasons. The wiring may have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection may have appeared further along in your electrical system. This might be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A certified technician should inspect electrical connections and wiring until they locate the source of the problem.
e294 – Critical
Critical error code e294 appears when your Nest thermostat’s wiring has to be reconfigured. More specifically, you’ll need the technician to reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first perform a factory reset of your thermostat to make sure it’s not simply a software problem. If that doesn’t work, they’ll examine the wiring diagram of the thermostat and start looking at connectors.
They’ll disconnect the power and progressively look at each wire, seeing to it that they are fully placed into the connector with the correct amount of exposed copper. When they locate the damaged connector, it can be exchanged for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can appear when the weather outside is particularly hot. The HVAC system can shut down and stop sending power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem persists, the backup battery in your thermostat depletes and the thermostat will eventually shut down. Assuming the breakers are on, you can search a handful of other places before consulting a professional technician.
Since this error can consume your thermostat’s battery, the first step could be supplying enough power to determine if this specific error code is what you’re dealing with. You can separate the thermostat from its base and deliver power with a USB cable. In the event it reveals error code 195, you may continue to visually check components including the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you don’t detect anything wrong with these components, it’s maybe best to contact a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 suggests an electrical issue with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 can refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is getting more power than necessary. This may stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or because of a faulty connection in the thermostat. A technician will meticulously examine and test the Nest’s electrical system to figure out where the power is surging or why the thermostat thinks there’s an overcurrent problem.
n260
Even though this error code isn’t critical, it might still keep you from using the Nest thermostat how you prefer to. Error code n260 pertains to the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as the absence of one can block your Nest from getting enough power. You can check the Nest’s C connector for the presence of a C wire and adapt the wiring itself if there is. If not, you’ll need a Nest Power Connector.
With installation of a Nest Power Connector, you may notice error code E297 show up. This can be remedied by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector has already been installed, you’ll instead be required to update the wiring info in the app from Settings -> Thermostat -> Wiring -> Update wiring.
e104 – Critical
Just like error code e103, e104 is a critical error stemming from an overcurrent. If excess power is sent inside the Nest’s wiring, it can damage internal components and can even be a fire hazard. If you notice this error code appear on your Nest thermostat and want to guard against electrical damage, it’s recommended to turn the power off straightaway. You can then contact a professional technician with the appropriate experience identifying and solving electrical damage.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it signifies that the Rc wire is not receiving power.
This might be as straightforward as the breaker being turned off, but it may also be something with the wiring. After shutting off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually check the wires to make sure none of them are loose or damaged. If nothing looks to be out of place, it’s time to get in touch with a local professional.